I stayed AirBnB this year and it was ok. In 2013 going out with two pals so we've rented an apartment via VRBO. Whole trip costing under ??900 and staying in a great part of town near the Common (and buses). Brookline last year was fine as T is quick into town.

Flights seem to be a little cheaper than last year. In terms of accommodation a group of three of us have hired a nice flat in Beacon Hill for less than we would have paid for a hotel in the centre. We've rented from VRBO who one of the guys used last year.

Suggest looking at the Runners World US forum on Boston. There are hundreds of useful threads on all topics from accommodation through to advice on the course etc. You'll also find a few UK runners joining in the merry banter.

Am a very infrequent visitor here but am just wondering about the err.... tea?? ... provision on course given the absence of sports drinks. Does anyone who has done this before know whether it is a branded cold tea or is it literally ... cold tea?